How much carbon footprint do you exactly save by switching from a fuel-powered car to an e-skateboard?

Calculating the carbon footprint of using an electric skateboard compared to driving a gasoline-powered car involves several steps and requires various data points. Here's a guide to help you through the process:

Data Required

Electric Skateboard

1. Electricity Consumption: The amount of electricity (in kWh) the skateboard consumes per charge.
2. Average Distance per Charge: The average distance you can travel on a single charge.
3. Electricity Source Carbon Intensity: The average carbon intensity of electricity generation in your region (measured in gCO2eq/kWh). This varies significantly depending on how your local grid generates electricity (e.g., coal, natural gas, nuclear, renewables).

Gasoline-Powered Car

1. Fuel Efficiency: The car's fuel efficiency, typically measured in miles per gallon (mpg).
2. Carbon Intensity of Gasoline: The amount of CO2 emitted per gallon of gasoline burned. This is typically around 8.887 kg CO2 per gallon, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
3. Average Trip Distance: The average distance you would travel in the car for similar purposes as you would use the electric skateboard.

Calculation Steps

Electric Skateboard

1. Calculate the kWh per distance unit (e.g., per mile) by dividing the electricity consumption per charge by the average distance per charge.

2. Multiply this value by the carbon intensity of electricity in your region to get the carbon footprint per distance unit (e.g., gCO2eq/mile).

Gasoline-Powered Car

1. Calculate the gallons of gasoline consumed per distance unit (e.g., per mile) by dividing 1 by the fuel efficiency (mpg).

2. Multiply this value by the carbon intensity of gasoline to get the carbon footprint per distance unit (e.g., kgCO2/mile).

Example Calculation

Assume the following values:

• Electric Skateboard: 0.5 kWh per charge, 20 miles per charge, 500 gCO2eq/kWh (based on your local grid).
• Gasoline Car: 25 mpg, 8.887 kg CO2 per gallon.

Electric Skateboard Carbon Footprint:

1. Electricity consumption per mile = 0.5 kWh / 20 miles = 0.025 kWh/mile
2. Carbon footprint = 0.025 kWh/mile * 500 gCO2eq/kWh = 12.5 gCO2eq/mile

Gasoline Car Carbon Footprint:

1. Gasoline consumption per mile = 1 / 25 mpg = 0.04 gallons/mile
2. Carbon footprint = 0.04 gallons/mile * 8.887 kg CO2/gallon = 355.48 gCO2eq/mile (0.355 kgCO2eq/mile)

This simple calculation shows the carbon footprint per mile for each mode of transportation. The actual numbers will vary based on specific circumstances and local factors, especially the carbon intensity of your electricity supply.

In conclusion

The comparison between the carbon footprint of using an electric skateboard and driving a gasoline-powered car provides valuable insights into the environmental impact of our transportation choices. Electric skateboards, with their lower electricity consumption and the potential for cleaner electricity sources, offer a more eco-friendly alternative to traditional gasoline-powered vehicles.
As technology advances and the carbon intensity of electricity generation decreases, particularly with the integration of renewable energy sources, the environmental benefits of electric skateboards will only become more pronounced. Not only do electric skateboards reduce emissions and contribute to a cleaner environment, but they also promote a culture of sustainability and innovative transportation solutions.

Moreover, electric skateboards bring additional benefits such as reducing traffic congestion, enhancing personal mobility, and providing a fun and engaging experience for users. By choosing an electric skateboard over a gasoline-powered car for short trips and daily commutes, individuals can make a positive impact on the environment while enjoying the convenience and excitement that comes with this modern mode of transportation.

Ultimately, the shift towards electric skateboards and other green transportation options reflects a broader commitment to sustainability and a healthier planet for future generations. By embracing these eco-friendly alternatives, we can work together to mitigate the effects of climate change and pave the way for a more sustainable and enjoyable future.